TEN QUESTIONS TO ASK WHEN BUYING A LODGE

If you’ve decided to buy yourself your dream holiday lodge and are just about to sign on the dotted line, there are a couple of things you need to ask yourself.

After all, buying a lodge is just like buying any other home, and there are plenty of last minute check you would make when buying a home, so why should a lodge be any different?

There are a couple of lodge-specific questions that you may have forgotten about however, so we’ve listen ten that we think might be useful.

When, and for how long, can I use the lodge?

It’s important to remember that holiday lodges are intended to be used as exactly that; a holiday home, and not as your primary residence.

However, you can usually use your holiday lodge for as much as 10 or 11 months of the year if you wish.

What is the build specification?

Although lots of holiday lodges may look similar, technically they may have been built to different build specifications.

For example, a more long-term holiday home will probably be built to BS 3632. These are built more with permanent residence in mind (although as we’ve pointed out, this isn’t allowed in holiday parks).

On the other hand, a lodge built to the EN 1647 is more likely to be a caravan style holiday home, built to a lower standard, and only intended for seasonal use.

What warranty is the park offering?

Most lodges will come with some form of warranty from the manufacturer, both on new and pre-owned lodges.

These will cover the structure and components of the lodges as well as the fixtures and fittings etc.

However, the warranty will vary depending on the manufacturer and park, so it’s always best to check.

What is the annual ground rent?

Of course, you’ll want to know exactly what costs are going to be involved with your lodge, so always ask what the ground rent is.

This will usually cover things such as park maintenance, rubbish collection and other services.

Do I have to pay Council Tax?

Seeing as your lodge will be a holiday home and not your permanent residence, you should not have to pay council tax.

Council tax is instead just paid at your main address. Your park owner should be given some form of proof of your main address when you move in, and this can be referred to if any residents are ever questioned about tax evasion.

What facilities are available on the park?

One of the best things about living in a holiday lodge is that there will usually be a range of facilities open to you at the park.

Whether it’s a swimming pool, play area, golf course, fishing facilities or just a nature trail to explore with the dog, holiday parks have all kinds of facilities for the whole family.

Are there any further plans for development?

It’s nice to be kept in the loop, so try and find out what the plans are for the future of your park.

Worst case scenario: these plans could have a negative impact and perhaps block your view.

Best case scenario: they could be building a new bar or swimming pool on-site!

Are children and pets allowed?

Holiday lodges are the perfect environment for kids and pets, and while most parks will allow them, it’s always best to double check.

There may be a further charge for pets and there may be rules that state they have be kept on a lead.

Can I have guests, friends and family at my lodge?

This will depend on the park you’re staying at. While most will allow you to have guests for a certain period of time, they want to make sure you’re not just sneaking another resident in for free!

Is the park a member of a professional body?

There are a number of professional bodies which have been established to represent the rights of lodge owners, such as the British Holiday & Home Parks Association, the Independent Park Home Advisory Service and the Park Home Owner’s Club.

If you have any further questions about holiday lodges that we haven’t covered here, feel free to contact us at Sell My Lodge.

(Courtesy of J.Allitt of Sell My Lodge)